Police were called to land close to a reservoir after reports that geese were being shot close to a public footpath.
Concerned passers-by witnessed the aftermath of what one described as a ‘massacre’ of the Canada geese, on private farmland close to the High Rid reservoir, west of Bolton, close to Horwich.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed they attended on Saturday, February 7, saying those involved were moved on and checks were made.
They included confirming that relevant gun licences were in place. It is understood the landowner had granted access and permission for the men, dressed in camouflage clothes, to be on the fields.
Westhougton councillor John McHugh was one of the people walking neaby who was distressed by the activity. He said: “Walking on High Rid today, three individuals in camouflage gear were shooting the Canada geese sat in the field.
“Around the grass were a number of these beautiful birds dead with their heads shot off. “The police were called but these individuals had permission from the farmer.
“Walking round I came across their camouflage tent and fishing gear.
“The police escorted them off.
“There is a public footpath close to where they were massacring the birds.
“What pleasure is the there is killing beautiful creatures?
“They need some kind of help.” The RSPB website states that the the Canada goose is a large goose, with a distinctive black head and neck and white throat patch.
It is originally from North America but has successfully spread to cover most of the UK. The society said it forms ‘noisy flocks and can be seen as a nuisance in areas where large numbers gather in parks and green spaces’.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed they were in attendance, and all relevant checks were made, including confirmed gun licences. They said the people were moved on and no further geese were killed, that they have also spoken with the owner of the land.
They added that enquiries are continuing.
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